Genealogy Workshops
Presented by the library’s Special Collections staff and members of the Ranger Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), these events are free, open to the public, and appropriate for all levels of interest and experience. All levels will learn something new!
Objects of Inspiration
Sunday January 17 | 2 - 4 PM
Register now!
Share an object or artifact that has led to a genealogical discovery in your family research – do you have an object that lead to a breakthrough? Unearthed a new line in your family tree? Found a repository or collection you had not thought of? Filled in a missing connection? A family clock, sheet music, mysterious photograph, brooch, inscribed book, teapot, piece of lace, uniform? It could be anything and we would all love to see your item and hear the research story!
This is your chance to share! You will share the image of one family item and have a scheduled 5 minutes to describe the provenance of the object, the steps taken in research, and the discovery that presented itself. Together we will discuss the findings, learn some research tips and hopefully be inspired to dig out those family artifacts that truly tell a story.
Registration required. Open to all levels. Register now! Zoom login information will be sent via email prior to the meeting.
Please submit one photo of your special object before January 13. Please include: your name, the name of the item, and a one sentence description. Send your images (JPG format preferred) and information to: nlcloutier@cityofportsmouth.com.
Library staff will coordinate a PowerPoint slide show to share with the group. We will have time to share and discuss 12-15 items – if there are many submissions, we will consider planning a second program!
ONLINE Genealogy Workshop
Ethical Dilemmas in Genealogy with Dr. Penny Walters
Sunday February 21 | 2 - 4 PM
Register now!
“I’m just compiling our family tree, what can go wrong?”
This session will discuss what ethics and morality mean in terms of genealogy. Ethical dilemmas in genealogy came to the forefront after law enforcement utilized information from GEDMatch to apprehend a suspected serial killer. What will you do if you discover secrets and lies or unexpected DNA results? If you were adopted, would you try and trace your biological mother? What information is appropriate on your public family tree program? Many people struggle through ethical dilemmas on their own, but together attendees at this session will benefit from considering ethical issues with more empathy and sensitivity. A variety of ethical dilemmas will be described and discussed. Join Dr. Penny Walters as she discusses these topics and more from her 2019 book Ethical Dilemmas in Genealogy.
Dr. Penny Walters has been a University lecturer for 30 years in Psychology and Business Studies. Penny's interest in genealogy started after having her first child and then wondering about her biological parents, as she was adopted. DNA testing has revealed 94% Irish heritage; and fascinating insights into her children’s heritage. Penny lectures internationally in-person, presents webinars, and writes articles about a variety of genealogy topics including ethical dilemmas, the psychology of searching, ethnicity and identity, adoption, Irish heritage, and mixing DNA results with a paper trail. Penny has authored the books: 'Ethical Dilemmas in Genealogy,' and ‘The Psychology of Searching’ both available in paperback or kindle on Amazon. She may be contacted at searchmypast.co.uk.
Registration required. Open to all levels. Register now! Zoom login information will be sent via email prior to the meeting.
Questions? Contact Nicole Luongo Cloutier.